Joan Fortier

Joan Fortier, 67, of Grafton, ND, passed away on Monday afternoon, January 12, 2026 at her home with her family by her side.

Joan Marie Woinarowicz was born on October 12, 1958, in Grafton, ND, to Joseph and Dolores (Lindemoen) Woinarowicz. She was raised in Stephen, MN, and graduated from the local high school. She was married to Larry Fortier in 1978, and raised their two sons in Drayton, ND. Following a divorce, Joan and the boys moved to Chippewa Falls, WI, where she attended college and received her education, becoming a Registered Nurse May 12, 1994.

In the years that followed, Joan was a steady support to everyone with whom she crossed paths. Her patients at Dove Healthcare in Eau Claire and at Lakeside Nursing and Rehabilitation in Chippewa Falls, received not only what they needed- but above and beyond that. Her job description was only a “suggestion,” as she frequently worked overtime and did what was truly important: loved everyone as best she could. To her sons, she carried within her a “home” to which they always returned. She was a mother, a best friend, a listening ear, and a warm heart. In these final years, Joan moved back to Grafton, ND, where she shared a home with her eldest son and lived near her family.

She may not have heard how great she truly was as often as she deserved, but she'll be missed beyond what words are written here.
May the angels lead her into paradise.

She is survived by her sons, John Fortier and Thom Fortier; siblings, Grace (Brian) Hornbaker, Paul (Dawna) Woinarowicz, Scott (Denise) Woinarowicz, and Joe Woinarowicz; and many nieces and nephews.

Joan will be greeted again by her parents, Joe Woinarowicz and Dolores (Bill) Desautel; and brother, Greg.

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:30 AM, in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church of Grafton, ND.

A RECORDING may be found here: Joan Fortier - Funeral Mass

INTERMENT: Spring of 2026, in St. Stephen Catholic Cemetery, Stephen, MN.